Computer science assistant professor Toni Pence is leading a team of six UNCW scholars who will use virtual reality technology to enhance learning and encourage students from underrepresented groups to consider STEM careers. The project is funded by a $394,606 grant from the National Science Foundation.
The immersive experience is tied to the curriculum, and the students learn by stepping into the virtual shoes of a STEM occupation. The project will focus initially on grades 3-5 but eventually could expand to middle school curriculum, said Pence, the primary investigator.
Another goal is to prevent students from becoming disengaged as they approach middle school, Stocker said. The VR-enhanced curriculum is designed to support learning by helping students see where their education can lead them and how what they learn can be applied outside the classroom.
See the full story here: https://uncw.edu/news/2019/05/uncw-researchers-will-use-virtual-reality-technology-to-encourage-students-to-consider-stem-careers.html